Did you know that every 39 seconds cyberattack happens? We guess that after this, don’t have doubts about the necessity of pentesting services. And it’s better to know, how often you need to conduct pen tests.
But the question is what company suits you. We know that the process of finding and choosing the right vendor can be overwhelming. That`s why we created this list of top penetration testing companies for you. Keep reading, and we are sure that you will find your future partner.
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What Is Penetration Testing?
Pen testing, another name for penetration testing, is a meticulous procedure used to assess a system’s security. The goal of the method is to discover weak points in the databases, networks, and vital information systems of a company.
Penetration testing goes beyond traditional security testing methods. It reveals real weaknesses and illustrates how they could impact company operations.
Penetration Testing Techniques
Penetration testing techniques are essential for identifying vulnerabilities in an organization’s IT infrastructure. It can be broadly classified into black box, white box, and grey box tests, each offering different levels of insight into the system being tested.
Black Box
Black box testing, known as external testing, mimics an external attack on an application without prior knowledge of its internal structure. It evaluates functionality based on user interactions and specifications, aiming to identify vulnerabilities accessible from outside the network. This approach simulates a real-world attack scenario, focusing on uncovering exploitable flaws without insight into the code or system architecture.
White Box Testing
White box testing, also known as clear box or code-based testing, involves testers having full knowledge of the software’s internal mechanisms. Security professionals have access to all details, including code, credentials, and documentation, allowing for a thorough examination of the application’s functionality and the identification of vulnerabilities. This method contrasts with black box testing, where the internal workings are unknown to the tester, focusing instead on testing the software from an external user’s perspective without access to the source code.
Grey Box Testing
Gray box testing, a mix of black box and white box testing, involves partial knowledge of the system’s internals. It combines external and internal testing strategies to find vulnerabilities effectively. This approach provides a balanced view, improving security analysis by integrating both user behavior simulation and in-depth code examination. It aims to efficiently pinpoint security flaws, offering a comprehensive assessment that leverages limited insider information for a focused review of the network’s security posture.
Who Performs Pen Tests?
Penetration tests are typically performed by ethical hackers or security experts. Usually, they are experienced developers with certification for pen testing like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker). Some of the best ethical hackers are self-taught. These professionals utilize their expertise in cybersecurity to mimic the actions of potential attackers, aiming to identify and address vulnerabilities within an organization’s IT infrastructure. Their work is essential for organizations looking to safeguard their digital assets against potential cyber threats.
How to Choose the Right Pentesting Vendor
Choosing the right pentesting vendor involves several crucial steps to ensure you partner with a company that aligns with your security needs:
Experience and Expertise
Seek out providers who have a proven track record in your specific industry. In this case, they can help you with common vulnerabilities and regulatory compliance requirements.
Customized Testing Approaches
Make sure that your possible partner offers pentesting services that match your environment and security concerns. And be aware that, a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective.
Certifications and Qualifications
Ask them for certifications like OSCP or CEH. It helps you indicate a certain level of expertise in pentesting.
Methodology and Tools
Inquire about their testing methodologies and tools. The best vendors use a combination of the latest automated tools and manual testing techniques.
Communication and Reporting
Pentesting company should provide clear, actionable reports that help you understand and mitigate identified vulnerabilities. Also, communication throughout the pentesting process is important for successful collaboration.
After-Test Support
It is better to look for vendors that offer post-test support to help remediate vulnerabilities and enhance your security posture.
Cost vs. Value
Of course, price matters. But you should remember that The cheapest option isn’t always the best when it comes to security. We advise you to focus on the provided value.
How Often Should You Conduct Penetration Tests?
It’s recommended to perform security assessments annually and after significant changes to infrastructure, product launches, or mergers and acquisitions. For organizations handling sensitive information or under strict regulations, more frequent penetration testing may be necessary to ensure ongoing security and compliance
Conclusion
Penetration testing is crucial for safeguarding digital assets against evolving cyber threats. It involves evaluating vulnerabilities across web applications, cloud infrastructures, and IoT devices, offering a strategic defense layer. Regular assessments, especially after major changes or to meet compliance requirements, maintain security vigilance and resilience, ensuring robust protection in the face of cyber challenges.